Very Rewarding -- Sometimes

If you've been a Panthers season ticket holder for the past 10 years, odds are you've seen some pretty bad hockey at some point.

And you're about to get some rewards for your loyalty to the South Florida 6.

The Panthers announced today that they will honor their longtime season ticket holders with a special loyalty recognition program. Catch is: Longtime means since at least 1997 when the team played at Miami Arena.

"Our season ticket holders are the lifeblood of the franchise,'' Michael Yormark said in an e-mail addressed to me and no one else. OK, that isn't true. "This program is just one small way of showing that appreciation.''

Those season ticket holders who qualify will receive a special gift, mention in the game program throughout the season and get other stuff. They will also get a special meet-and-greet with the '96 Panthers during the July reunion weekend.